Philly’s Best Tea

Whether you’re looking for a caffeine boost to power your day, a social experience, or just something to sip on as you sit back and relax — tea could be the answer.

To find the city’s best options for a cuppa, the City Cast Philly podcast chatted with food blogger/influencer Dave Wez (@feedingtimetv) last fall. Here are some of Dave’s recs.

For Green Tea: Matcha Panda

Dave calls this place the “green tea mecca of Chinatown.” In addition to matcha drinks, you can also find matcha gelato and cream puffs!

202 N. 9th St.

For Hard-To-Find Teas: Ray’s Café & Tea House

This small mom-and-pop shop offers a number of Taiwanese teas that may be hard to come by elsewhere — and you can even buy tea leaves from them. If you’re also a coffee fan, don’t miss their well-loved siphon coffee.

141 N. 9th St.

For Bubble Tea: Tiger Sugar

Dave points to this national chain as his personal favorite spot for boba in the city — but he also notes that Chinatown is awash with bubble tea shops. “I feel like there’s one on every block,” he says.

122 N. 10th St. and 6201 N. Front St.

For Special Occasions: Mary Cassatt Tea Room at The Rittenhouse Hotel

This is a “fancy jawn,” Dave says. You can get all dressed up for a traditional afternoon tea, have some canapés or scones, and even enjoy your tea alongside sparkling wine, champagne, and/or caviar. Tea time packages range from $70–$275. Make sure you make a reservation!

210 W. Rittenhouse Square

🍵 For more local tea recommendations — including where you can find fancy tea AND a solid cheeseburger — give the City Cast Philly podcast a listen.